If you suspect that you have damaged or missing Windows system files, you can run the built in utility program System File Check commonly called "SFC". This is a command line program, run from the Start / Run box.

The following pictures will explain the process more fully...

When the scan starts, you will see a progress bar.

When I sat down to write this page I intended to discuss the various methods you could use to provide the utility with the setup information normally found on the installation CD. This is necessary in some cases because the backup information on the systems hard drive may be damaged or missing and the files need to be extracted from the installation CD.

Since most computers these days are delivered without the original installation CD, this can be a problem. But in many cases the installation files the system needs are available to you in the I386 folder stored on your hard drive.

While researching this topic online, I came across a great Website that explains in easy to understand language the various means to solve this SFC problem. The site is written by Marc Liron and you can find it here. Visit Marc Liron's home page here. Marc Liron is a Microsoft VIP

But before you go, here are a some points to consider...

If you're running Windows XP Media Center Edition, this page from Microsoft will be of interest to you: click here.

And if after reading Marc's article on SFC you find you still need an installation CD, here is a less costly method of getting one. Go to your local computer repair store and ask them to make a copy of your Windows XP version software. Be sure to note the version of the Windows XP Operating System that you're running. For instance, if you're running WinXP SP2 you will need to get that version. Right click on the "My Computer" icon and choose "Properties" to see the operating system version that you're using.

You will need to photograph the Certificate of Authenticity (Product Key) to show them so they know they are not creating a "pirated" disk. You can take a picture of the Certificate of Authenticity sticker on the side, back or bottom of your computer and present it to them. Or, if your computer is a laptop, just take the computer with you so they can see the sticker.

Sample Certificate of Authenticity

To save time, I suggest you call the shop ahead of time and ask if they can make you the copy of the Windows Operating System that you need and what kind of proof of authendicity they will require. In Anchorage my local repair shop charges $20 for this sevice.